I'm hoping to get some help with the following situation, which I'm tentatively considering calling the case of "bad karma related to asking JCrew for a discount."

As you may have seen in an earlier post, I asked a JCrew sales associate outright to match a 25% discount I had been given earlier this winter when I bought my first 2 pairs of Aldens. The associate gave me a 20% discount. Well, the Cadet Cordovan bluchers I ordered arrived today and, I'm sad to say, I was left a bit disappointed by the following issues:

1. The "discount" of 20% I was to have been given has yet to be applied. The sales associate claims it should show up on my Amex within the next couple of days. We shall see. I'm less worried about this issue; I know refunds sometimes take a little while to appear.

2. I realize this second issue may be more about my obsessiveness. However, Jcrew did not give me the green Alden box we're all excited to see when the UPS or FedEx delivery person arrives. Instead, I got this JCrew box

I got on the phone and talked with a JCrew associate from the 800 number. She claims that Aldens x JCrew are not shipping with the green box. I reminded her that I ordered JCrew aldens just several months ago and got, not one, but two green boxes. She said she'd check in with a supervisor. Somewhat rudely, she returned and noted that there was no information they could provide about whether the green box could be sent separately to me (I'm thinking it might be a good idea to have the green box if I ever want to turn around and sell the shoes on the bay or SF someday). Despite my extensive order history, I apparently did not warrant any further effort to procure something as simple as a box. Should I let this go? Have others ordering thru JC encountered similar?

3. Most important issue: the shoes, while not creased, had some scuffing, albeit perhaps minor. I suppose it's something a little Mac method could take care of, but still, my thought is: every other Alden retailer seems to be able to provide shoes that look unworn and pristine out of the box. Why can't JCrew? So, based on the following pics, should I ask for an exchange? (sorry in advance for the crappy pics. I'm at the office all day today and have no dslr nearby)

I guess one could argue the karma I created by asking for the discount has come full circle. One could also argue that I'm just being overly picky and that the scuffs pictured above might well happen from my own normal wear over time. However, should I seek to get better from a company I've supported very thoroughly over the last number of years? Please help me put it in proper perspective.

And sorry for the long post...

I would not feel bad about asking for a discount, they do have the option of saying no. If they do promise it, then they should follow through on it.

I thought that they looked reasonable, but that is just me. My brand new RL Marlows have several small scratches on them.

Bummer about the box, but I don't think that the used shoe buyer is going to care a ton if its a J Crew box vice an Alden box. I personally care more about the shape of the shoes than if it has the box.

Mr. DV, those are absolutely gorgeous! What sole do they have? I have been long appreciating the Indy and have been considering the Cigar ones that TSM has listed, but I think you just shifted my focus to this Ravello Plaza Indy. I might have to try and get on someone's list for these.

What do people think about speed hooks, I have like the concept of their convenience, but heard that they can break!

Originally Posted by docalden2013
every other Alden retailer seems to be able to provide shoes that look unworn and pristine out of the box.

As others have inferred, this has not been my experience at all. I've received much worse from retailers that are much more closely affiliated with Alden than J Crew.

Too bad about the box, I sort of have a nice collection going so understand your disappointment, but you should ask yourself if you were buying a pair of shoes or a green box in the first place. Any Aldens you buy from BB won't come with the green box either, but that doesn't stop me from buying them.

I am always very respectful when trying on shoes that I have not yet made my own so that I don't defile a pair of $700 shoes for the next guy. Unfortunately, not everyone is so considerate.

Mr. DV, those are absolutely gorgeous! What sole do they have? I have been long appreciating the Indy and have been considering the Cigar ones that TSM has listed, but I think you just shifted my focus to this Ravello Plaza Indy. I might have to try and get on someone's list for these.

What do people think about speed hooks, I have like the concept of their convenience, but heard that they can break!

Ive never had one break(tear out) but they are sketchy IMO .All in all given a choice I take eyelets

Mr. DV, those are absolutely gorgeous! What sole do they have? I have been long appreciating the Indy and have been considering the Cigar ones that TSM has listed, but I think you just shifted my focus to this Ravello Plaza Indy. I might have to try and get on someone's list for these.

What do people think about speed hooks, I have like the concept of their convenience, but heard that they can break!

The ravello plaza indy is going to be a tuff boot to get. It has only been offered by one retailer (in netherlands) and i believe they are out of stock. If they have a reorder planned I'd guess delivery is a year(s) out.

Another US retailer told me they had a 2-4 year wait for a restock of ravello plain toe blucher.
It could all be hype, who knows.

I picked up these color 8 SWB's from Alden of Carmel. I was hung up on the commando soles for a very long time, but finally broke down and pulled the trigger. Wish I had done so sooner! Warning: Spoiler! (Click to show)

I like that they do not have the storm welt. It looks sleeker and more dressy than the LWB. Even with commando soles (difficult to notice them w/o looking for them) I can pair these with dressier options.

Quote:

Originally Posted by macjedi

Excellent choice! This is a great all-weather travel shoe as well!

I really like these and debated a lot before I purchased the 974. The Commando sole would have been better for my purposes, but can't say I'm unhappy with the Tremont. Enjoy them! I may break down in the Fall and get those too! FWIT, I prefer short wings over the long wing...